"Barack Obama campaigns in the Midlands" (with videos)

WIStv(SC) (with videos):

(Midlands) February 16, 2007 - Senator Barack Obama has a long way to go before he can claim the Democratic nomination for president. However, he might have picked up a few votes in his first South Carolina campaign stop Friday evening.

The crowd was large - police estimated around 2,500. And it was diverse - young and old, black and white. Many were convinced Senator Barack Obama can be president.

"He's extremely bright and he has just great insight," said Jackie Prueitt.

When asked if the senator has the experience to be president, Obama supporter Tiaa Rutherford turned the tables. "I would ask you does the current president have the experience to be president? And what really is experience to be president outside of being able to motivate a people and being able to lead a country," Rutherford said.

The campaign is officially less than a week old, but Obama is already a polished performer on stage.

At one point, Obama dismissed remarks from Lowcountry State Senator Robert Ford, who said this week Democrats would lose across the board if Obama is the party's nominee.

"Everybody's entitled to their opinion. But I know this - when folks were saying "we're going to march for our freedom" somebody said you can't do that. And they did it," Obama told supporters.

Afterwards, Obama had more new fans.

"I loved his message. Just everything he had to say," said Eileen Harrell, of Hilton Head. "I loved the healthcare issue. I own a small business and that's been a big issue. And I like that he has a plan to get out of Iraq."

Larry Tullis says he voted Republican in the last presidential election. He says he could vote for Obama this time.

"I had watched on the past weekend when he announced his candidacy and just wanted to come out and listen to what he had to say. And I'm really impressed," Tullis told News 10.

Howie P.S.: This station has posted four separate video reports on Obama's visit, including a live one-on-one interview and live footage from the rally.